St Mary's Priory Church

The ruins of St Mary's Priory Church sit quietly on the edge of Coleford, a medieval monastery reduced to its most essential stone skeleton. What remains are the walls and arches of what was once a proper Norman foundation - you can still pick out the architectural bones if you know what to look for. The site feels less manicured than many heritage attractions, which is either refreshing or slightly underwhelming depending on your tolerance for overgrown masonry.

It's worth a stop if you're into ecclesiastical history or just walking around old things, but don't block out half a day for it. An hour's potter about, maybe some photos if the light's decent, and you're done. The setting is pleasant enough - greenery, that Forest of Dean quiet - but the ruins themselves won't hold families with young children for long. Older kids interested in medieval life might find something to grab onto here.

Free to access, as far as anyone can tell, though information boards seem thin on the ground. Visit in spring or early autumn when the site isn't drowning in overgrowth or clogged with wet leaves. If you're camped at Doward Park or Bracelands - both within easy striking distance - it's a reasonable morning walk. Pair it with a proper woodland ramble in the Forest of Dean or a visit to something with more flesh on its bones, because the priory alone is bit lean for a dedicated trip.